Since its debut, ‘Katangari Goes to Town’ has gone on to win the favour of audiences. Patience Ujah and Victor Panwal feature as main characters. The project not only highlights their acting prowess but also reveals their personal connections to the characters they portray and the roads they have travelled to get here. Ujah plays Mima, a character she describes as “resilient and deeply relatable,” while Panwal takes on the role of Wash, whose journey mirrors the complexities of navigating life’s challenges with ambition and heart.
For Ujah, acting was not an obvious path. Growing up in a small town, she initially leaned towards a more conventional career, following the expectations of her family and community. However, her passion for storytelling could not be subdued. “I remember sneaking off to audition for a local theatre group,” she recalls with a laugh. “I didn’t even tell my parents until I landed my first role.” That first role ignited a spark, and Ujah has not looked back since.
Ujah’s portrayal of Mima in ‘Katangari Goes to Town’ reflects some of her own experiences. “Mima’s resilience is something I connect with deeply. She’s been through struggles, but she finds a way to keep going. I think a lot of people will see themselves in her,” Ujah shares.
Panwal’s entry into acting followed a different trajectory. A former Big Brother Naija contestant, his reality TV fame came with both opportunities and challenges. “Coming out of the house, people had expectations,” he explains. “Some thought I would just fade away, while others assumed I would stick to the ‘celebrity’ lane. But acting has always been my passion,” he adds
Transitioning from reality TV to film required Panwal to prove his credibility as an actor, a task he embraced with determination. “Wash is a complex character,” Panwal says of his role in ‘Katangari Goes to Town’. “He’s ambitious but flawed, and he’s constantly trying to find his place. It’s a role that allowed me to dig deep and show a different side of myself.” For Panwal, the film is a chance to challenge stereotypes about reality TV stars, demonstrating that talent and hard work can transcend initial perceptions.
The relatability of their characters is a cornerstone of ‘Katangari Goes to Town’, and both actors emphasise the film’s universal appeal. “These are characters that could be your neighbours, your friends, or even yourself,” Ujah notes. “That’s what makes this film special—it’s about everyday people navigating life in their unique ways.” Panwal adds, “I think audiences will connect with the honesty of the story. It’s not just about the big moments; it’s about the small, quiet struggles that shape who we are.”
As ‘Katangari Goes to Town’ continues its reign, Ujah and Panwal are reflective about their journeys. Both actors acknowledge the hurdles they have overcome and the growth they experienced. Ujah credits her persistence and the support of mentors who believed in her talent. Panwal, on the other hand, points to the lessons he learnt from his reality TV experience and how they shaped his approach to acting. “Big Brother taught me a lot about resilience and authenticity,” he says. “Those are lessons I carry with me into every role.”
The film industry often grapples with stereotypes, whether it’s about gender, background, or, in Panwal’s case, the transition from reality TV to acting. However, both Ujah and Panwal are defying expectations, proving that talent and determination can pave the way for success. As they bring Mima and Wash to life on screen, their performances are a testament to their hard work and the power of relatable storytelling.
While ‘Katangari Goes to Town’ is a classic Whodunnit, Ujah and Panwal’s connection to the story makes it a celebration of resilience and ambition. For the actors, it is also a milestone in their careers, marking the beginning of new chapters filled with promise and possibility.
